Mr. Francis R. "Frank" LaBella

UTICA - Mr. Francis R. “Frank” LaBella, age 92, passed away on Friday, September 22, 2017 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Born in Utica on January 29, 1925, Francis was the son of the late Paul and Mary (DePero) LaBella. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Frank honorably served his country during World War II stationed in Hawaii. He shared a longtime relationship with his late companion Eileen Taurisano. They enjoyed love, laughs, and life during their years together. Frank was employed at Chicago Pneumatic as a machinist for the majority of his working life. He concurrently sold life insurance and worked as a tax accountant. Like many of the Greatest Generation, Frank was honest, loyal, hard-working, and patriotic; he was generous to many organizations close to his heart. He had a quiet demeanor but his mind was always working. He gently offered advice when asked. He was a golf enthusiast and was fond of the fairways at Valley View. He was also a fan of dancing at Trinkaus Manor, watching a good movie, and partaking in a delicious dinner. He had a fancy for fine vehicles and cared for them meticulously. He would often take a ride with no destination or reason in mind other than to take in the scenery and take a moment of time to enjoy the tranquility and quiet beauty of nature. Frank was a member of the Tau Phi Zeta Fraternity. He stood upon his religious beliefs and practiced his Catholic faith as a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Francis is survived by his cousins; his extended family who shared life with him, Joseph and Jacqueline Booth and their daughter Kaila; and John Booth. He was predeceased by his sister, Donata “Donna” Zainio; his childhood friend, Antoinette LaBella; and his love, Eileen Taurisano. In keeping with Frank’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Francis’ funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Tuesday morning at 10:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Francis R. "Frank" LaBella

January 29, 1925 - September 22, 2017